Volunteer’s Week 2017 – Alli Waller

Scouting couldn't happen without our volunteers, they're fantastic! For Volunteer's week 2017, we decided to talk to a few of them to find out why they volunteer and what they get out of it. If you're interested in volunteering, why not have a look at some of the benefits, you can also email us at volunteer@axescouts.org.uk and we will help you find a role.

Alli Waller

Cub Scout Leader

How long have you been volunteering for?

I've been volunteering for 12 years.

How did you get involved and what inspires you to volunteer in Scouting?

I started as a parent helper, when my eldest son joined cubs. I realised they were short of help and decided to help out each week.

What are your favourite things about Scouting?

To begin with it was a way of our whole family spending time together as we were all in scouting. Soon I realised it’ was a chance to give young people opportunities to do activities and to push them out of their comfort zones. Seeing their faces when they achieve something is priceless. Most of my good friends I have met through Scouting. Camping is my favourite activity.

What positive impact do you believe you have on young people through volunteering?

By giving up just a few hours a week I have been able to help shape the future generation. I am able to offer every young person that comes through my Group the same opportunities to learn new skills, grow in confidence and make new friends so they can pass their knowledge and memories on to others.

What advice would give anyone looking to join Scouting?

The Scout association is the UK's biggest co-educational youth movement, so 500,000 people can’t be wrong. They need more adult volunteers so why not give a few hours of your free time and help shape a child’s life in a positive way, It may even change your life too.

How do you believe you have benefited by volunteering for Scouting?

I have benefited enormously from volunteering for Scouting. The training I received and the experience it has given me, opened up a whole new career for me. I am now a youth worker and in a job I love all thanks to having Scouting on my CV. I get to help shape lives during the day and then do the same in the evenings and weekends as a scout leader.